Formal Grooming Dos & Don'ts

At some point after, say, age 8, preparing for formal occasions becomes a fate that falls on the fear meter somewhere between public speaking and death. Any way you slice it, getting all dolled up is a hassle. And while you’ve hopefully given up the clip-on and cummerbund, there are now more adult issues to consider: hair, facial hair, teeth, and breath, to name a few. Sure, these dos and don’ts are good ideas on any occasion, but they’re an absolute must when the red carpet gets rolled out.

Do- Remove jewelry

Did you disobey mom and dad in high school with a couple of diamond studs? Go to a few too many college coffee houses where nose rings seemed like a good idea? When it’s time to suit up on a special day, ditch the metal adornments. And if your choice of piercing isn’t readily removable, you may want to think about a more permanent solution or reach for a box of Band-Aids.

Don’t- Shave at the last minute

If you want to shave at the 11th hour, think again. You run the risk of nicks, scratches and nasty irritation. Freshly shaved skin rubbing against a shirt collar for a few hours won’t help matters, either. Instead, try shaving the day before to allow enough time for the skin to rest. But if you’re the kind of guy who develops a five o’clock shadow before noon, book an appointment for a professional shave that cuts closer and lasts longer.

Do- Remove rogue hairs

Spider legs hanging out of your nose, ear hairs a la grandpa and a unibrow? This is no way to show up to the gym, let alone a formal event. Invest in a simple pair of grooming scissors to snip away those gnarly nose and ear hairs. Just don’t go crazy: the visible hairs are the only ones you need to be concerned about (the ones working behind the scenes actually serve a purpose). The same is true for your eyebrows. Lay down some cash for a good tweezer (around $15) and only pluck the strays. When they’re too chiseled — or worse, whittled away to pencil-thin lines — you might as well trade in the tux for a dress.

Don't- Get a new completely new haircut

Save the urge for a hawk or highlight, because experimenting with a new hairstyle right before a big day isn’t the way to go. The hair goal at hand: look like a better version of your everyday self. And to accomplish that, all you need is a basic cleanup at least a week in advance to allow for natural regrowth.

Do- Pop a mint

You debated about checking fish on the reply card, but chicken seemed like a better option. And with roasted onions and a side of garlic mashed potatoes, it was certainly a delicious one. But unless your goal is to set up a 100-yard no-fly zone, bring a small box of breath mints and toss down a couple after you chow down.